Michael Murphy delivered a performance for the ages last night to inspire Donegal to victory over Meath in the Division 2 final.

Murphy helped to haul Donegal back from the brink.

Declan Bonner’s men were 1-6 to 0-1 behind as Meath stunned them with an early salvo.

Murphy hit seven points and played a huge role in Jamie Brennan’s goal as Donegal won 1-17 to 1-15.

Murphy’s display had Twitter purring …

I will never allow Michael Murphy to retire.

— Kieran Cunningham (@KCsixtyseven) March 30, 2019

Michael Murphy giving an exhibition for Donegal in this second half. What a player he is.

— Declan Brouder (@DB11NCW) March 30, 2019

Michael Murphy at the edge of the square is different gravy #TírConaillAbu

— Conchúr Ó Sirideáin (@_ConorSheridan_) March 31, 2019

He's had many but that had to be one of Michael Murphy's most influential Donegal performances.

— Colm Keys (@KeysColm) March 30, 2019

Even the US Navy realise how good @officialdonegal Michael Murphy is, they’ve named a ship after him. https://t.co/y6G8ST9moj

— bradas o Donnell (@jacksonsmediatv) March 31, 2019

Lads, Jamie Brennan an Michael Murphy an Oisin Gallen with Paddy McBrearty still to come in? Will Donegal be the first team to play with 4 in the full forward line??? #haymakers #AllianzLeagueFinal

— McBreartysRightPeg (@Chimp1979) March 30, 2019

It was a privlege to see Michael Murphy in action today, pulled Donegal back from being 8 points down in the first half. He will go down as one of the greats #AllianzLeagues

— Ronan McManus (@Max_Manis) March 30, 2019

I'm not one to exaggerate, BUTTTTTTTTT; If Michael Murphy would have ever contested a high ball with Andre the giant,(RIP) he would have come out on top. #unrealfielder #MEATHvDON #Donegal

— Tony McGettigan (@Tonymac07) March 30, 2019

Congrats to Donegal on their win tonight in Division 2 final. What a performance by Michael Murphy, great all round player! Roll on championship!

— Catriona Harkin (@triona23) March 30, 2019

There should be a bronze statue of Michael Murphy at every crossroads in Donegal. #MEATHvDON

— Paul O'Donnell (@DonegalPaul9) March 30, 2019

@Roli100
Michael Murphy is some player.
Great display v Meath.
Even Corofin team or Dublin team would have him as their full forward.

— Paraic Farrelly 1 (@FarrellyParaic1) March 30, 2019

Job Vacancy: Britton Insurance are currently taking applications for the role of Commercial Representative. 

Donegal Town based Insurance Broker; Britton Insurance has a full-time commercial position available.

The ideal candidate will:

• Have a CIP qualification, working towards a CIP accreditation, grandfathered or have Insurance experience (other financial qualifications will be considered)
• Have strong organisational skills
• Minimum of 5 years’ commercial insurance or equivalent financial lines experience.
• Have excellent communication and telephone skills

Location: Britton Insurance, Crennan House, Tirconaill Street, Donegal Town, Co Donegal

Numeration: Depending on experience

Terms: Permanent

Apply By: 16th April 2019

Application to: info@brittoninsurance.com with the subject line: Commercial Rep.

PLEASE NOTE THOSE WHO DO NOT FIT INTO THE ABOVE CRITERIA WILL NOT BE RESPONDED TO

Pat Britton & Co Ltd t/a Britton Insurance is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

Britton Insurance Broker

Spring is definitely in the air at libraries across Donegal as the Spring into Storytime initiative kicks off this April. 

Thirteen libraries across Donegal will host a variety of interactive, fun and informative storytime events for preschoolers and their families.

 Kevin McCaul from Donegal Library Service said: “We want to reinforce the importance of reading at home through our Spring into Storytime sessions and we will be sharing hints and tips for parents that will help them develop a love of reading in their children”.

He added “With the Easter holidays just around the corner we are keen to help families relax with their children in a welcoming environment while enjoying some special ‘family time’ at our libraries. We want to encourage a more family focused approach to reading with children and raise awareness of the benefits of reading as a fun activity for children and also to let people see the types of services and resources that are available free of charge for children in our libraries.

“This is all part of the national ‘Right to Read’ programme and we are asking parents to come along and let Donegal Libraries transform, enrich and inspire you.”

This is the 3rd year of the Spring into Story-time initiative which is a Libraries Ireland initiative and events are free of charge and open to everyone.

The first event takes place on Wednesday 3rd April at 11.00 am in Central Library through to Saturday 27th April when Bundoran Library will be having a Storytime including “The Natural Company Presents “Wild, Tribe Heros”.  A recycling demonstration and childrens games will follow.

Joining the library is easy and members can avail of up to 12 books for 3 weeks at a time. Children often love to read the same story over and over, and libraries can facilitate an extension so parents can ensure their young ones get to read their favourite book. The library also offers a range of online resources including parenting magazines, and online courses.

For more information call into your local library or visit the What’s On page at donegallibrary.ie  or follow Donegal County Library on Facebook or Twitter.

Donegal border communities united yesterday afternoon as protests were held as massive uncertainty over Brexit continues.

The rallies took place at six places along the border – including Lifford or Bridgend.

British MPs rejected Prime Minister Theresa May’s Withdrawal Agreement for the third time on Friday.

A European Council meeting has now been scheduled for April 10 following the rejection of the agreement.

Speaking after attending the Border Communities Against Brexit protest at Bridgend, Donegal Senator Pádraig Mac Lochlainn said: “Brexit poses a huge threat to jobs, our border communities, and the two economies on this island.

“A majority of people in the North voted to Remain and the Tories along with the DUP are ignoring this democratic mandate. Our rights, economy and agreements must be protected.

“The antics on display at Westminster show clearly the complete disregard the British Government has for Ireland, especially our border communities,” he added.

“We have stood together in the North West to defend the Good Friday Agreement and the interests of the Irish people.

Over 700 took part in this morning’s RunDonegal Women’s 5k which was held through the Twin Towns.

706 took the starter’s gun which was fired by Triathlon Ireland Development Officer and motivational speaker, Nikki Bradley. Conditions for the event were perfect.

The race was won by Leoni Mullen in 19:15, with Karen Gallagher second in 19:56 and Aoife McGrath third in 20:16.
Proceeds from the race will go to the Brid Carr Ovarian Cancer Research Fund.

Speaking as the last of the competitors crossed the finish line at the Finn Valley Sports Centre, race director, Grace Boyle, said she was delighted with the turnout.

“Given that there are other things clashing with the race in the locality today, we are thrilled with the entry. There was a big surge in the online entries towards the end of the week and I have no doubt the good morning was a factor in attracting those who might have been undecided up until this morning,” Boyle said.

“There are so many winners from this event today – the women who came from all parts of the county and took part, the Brid Carr Ovarian Cancer Research Fund which continues to make great inroads, and the awareness about ovarian cancer a mass participation event like this creates.

“I’d like to extend my thanks to all those who helped out in the buildup to today, to Finn Valley AC for allowing us to host it again at their centre this year and to all who officiated and made sure that all who took part got around safe and sound. Thanks also to those who made a donation to the cause online,” she added.

“Every euro raised will go directly to the fund.”

Holders of UK Drivers licences have been urged to immediately exchange their licences for an Irish drivers licence or they run the risk of holding no valid licence after Brexit occurs, according to the Road Safety Authority. 

Drivers have until April 12th to exchange their licenses unless a further extension is agreed between the UK and the European Union.

Speaking on Saturday, Deputy Gallagher said: “It would be prudent to act now rather than wait and see what eventual outcome there is to the UK Parliament decision on Brexit, as there will be natural delays in exchanging licences.

“But if a crash out of the EU occurs with the United Kingdom, then overnight you could very well find out that your UK licence is no longer valid to use on Irish roads if you are residing in the Republic.”

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) confirmed last month that the demand had reached up to 500 applications per day.

The Minister for Transport Shane Ross said: “The Road Safety Authority (RSA), through the National Driver Licence Service (NDLS) are informing people to avail of the exchange facility in place to swap over the UK licence for an Irish licence before that facility extinguishes in the event of a no-deal Brexit.

“Therefore it is critical that holders of UK drivers Licences avail of this exchange scheme before the Brexit deadline.”

Over 700 took part in this morning’s RunDonegal Women’s 5k which was held through the Twin Towns.

Full round-up of results from the event below.

THE Glenties Electoral Area needs a strong voice in Government to deliver for the people, a newly-announced Fine Gael election candidate said today.

Evelyn Sweeney, (42), from Gaoth Dobhair will be on the party ticket for the local council elections on Friday, May 24.

She is a Constituency adviser for Donegal TD and Minister for Education & Skills Joe McHugh and believes his record in delivering for west Donegal in Government needs to be repeated in the Donegal County Council chamber.

“I work for constituents every day in west Donegal; in my home parish of Gaoth Dobhair but also right across the west of the county, from Glenties and Ardara to Gweebarra, Dungloe, the Rosses and right up to Falcarragh and Dunfanaghy,” said mother of three Evelyn.

“Working with Joe has given me a unique insight into the issues which affect ordinary hard-working families in the county. Helping people overcome those issues is very rewarding but I feel I also need to the voice of people in Lifford too, working on issues which the County Council needs to address.

“Joe McHugh and grassroots party members have been extremely supportive and that’s why I have decided to try to get a seat for Fine Gael in the next Council.”

A native Irish speaker originally from Cnoc An Stollaire but now living in Bun A Laca, she says she’s proud of the work of Minister McHugh and the Constituency Office team for communities across the west of the county.

“In my own parish of Gaoth Dobhair Joe’s dedication to the Amharclann showed his passion for our culture and our language; it’s the same with the new St Finian’s Hall in Falcarragh, both wonderful centres for real people in real communities to meet and engage with their neighbours and ,” said Evelyn.

“Infrastructure projects along the N56 have opened the West to business and for communities. Fine Gael in Government is investing tens of millions of euro on the route – and also in providing facilities for jobs creation in new centres in Glenties and expanded facilities in Gaoth Dobhair.

“It’s a privilege to be part of Joe’s team helping to deliver for Donegal. But I also know there is a lot more to do. The Wild Atlantic Way is bringing tens of thousands more tourists to our beautiful west coast but we need to create more facilities – and encourage new hotel and B&B accommodation so that people from around the world stay longer with us.

“While I have worked as a voice in National Government for so many people from Ardara to Dunlewey and from Gaoth Dobhair to Dunfanaghy, I want to be their voice now at County House in Lifford, to ensure concerns are dealt with properly in local Government.”

Evelyn says she has been inspired by the work of former Minister Dinny McGinley as well as Minister McHugh.

“Joe has been Delivering for Donegal at the heart of the Government and I have been privileged to have been on that journey with him as part of his Constituency team – helping sporting groups for example to access Sports Capital Grants from the Department of Sport and a range of groups deal with Roinn na Gaeltachta.

“We get to see all the positive work which goes on; there’s a very positive focus in the team. That’s the only way to get things done. Dinny worked that way as a TD.

“I am conscious that west Donegal needs a new voice in Donegal County Council.”

Evelyn has vowed to keep the Irish language at the heart of her work.

“Our language is our heritage,” she said.

“It must be front and centre of Council policy going forward, but not in the old ways in which it was forced upon people. It must be about sharing our language in way which encourages its daily use, particularly in our gaeltachta areas.”

Evelyn believes it’s important that there are more female voices in the Donegal County Council Chamber.

“Fine Gael is such a diverse party with people from all walks of life and it’s important that women like me help to create role models for the next generation; strong women are at the heart of families and communities and we need strong women in our county councils and in Dáil Éireann reflecting those views and reflecting the needs of rural communities and rural villages and towns,” she added.

“I want to inspire young people to look to a brighter future for west Donegal. I want to inspire hard-working families and retired people to believe we can all work together for this beautiful county in a positive way; re-calibrating our communities for the better.”

The Gaoth Dobhair mum will be on the Fine Gael ticket alongside Michael McClafferty. She is one of four women candidates on the Fine Gael election team.

Gaeilge:

Tá glór láídir de dhith sa Rialtas, i dtogh cheantair na nGleanntach, le freastal ar lucht na taobh seo tire, a deir iarrathóír nua de chuid Fhine Gael.
Beidh Eibhlín Nic Suibhne (42) ar thicéid na phairtí, i dToghcháín na Comhairle Contae, ar an 24ú Bealtaine seo chugainn.

Is comhairleoir toghroinne í ,don Aire Oideachais agus Teachta Dála Dhún na nGall, Joe Mc Hugh, agus creideann sí ins an obair mhór mhaith atá déanta aige sa rialtas i n-Iar thuaisceart Dhún na nGall, rud atá le h-athdhéanamh i Rannóg an Chomhairle Chontae.
“I mo phost leis an Aire, bím ag obair go laethúil ar son muintir an togh cheantair, ó cheann ceann an chontae” a dúirt Eibhlín, atá ina máthair ag triúr gasúr.
“Tugann mo phost le Joe Mc Hugh, deis iontach domh léargas a fháil ar na fadhbanna atá ag teaghlaigh atá amuigh ag obair sa chontae seo, ach tá glór láidir agam le tacaíocht a thabhairt do na daoine seo ar dhóigh eile, agus taobh istigh de réimse an Chomhairle Contae”.
Tá tacaíocht faighte agam ón bhun aníos, le troid ar son suíochan do Fine Gael, agus táim buíoch do Joe Mc Hugh as an t-uchtach sin a thabhairt domh mé féin a chur chun tosaigh.
Cainteoir dúchais Gaeilge, as Cnoc A Stollaire ach a bhfuil cónaí uirthi i mBunLeaca le fiche bliain, tá sí bródúil as an mhéid ata déanata ag an tAire Mc Hugh agus a fhoireann do cheantracha ó iarthar Dhún nan Gall.
“I mo cheantar féin I nGaoth Dobhair, bhí Joe iontach dílís dár gcultúr agus dár dteanga, agus thaispeain sé sin leis an infheistíocht a rinne sé i nAmharchlann Ghaoth Dobhair- bhí an scéala amhlaidh ar na Crois Bhealaigh le Halla Naomh Fhionáin- áit a bhfuil anois deis ag daoine buaileadh le chéile”.
“Tá borradh tagtha ar infastructúr an N56, agus tá gnónna anois oscailte, agus ag forbairt tar eis infheistíócht de na milliúin euro ar an bhóthair seo – cuidíonn sin le bailte beaga agus le forbairt postanna”
“Tá sé ina onóir domhsa a bheith ag obair mar pháirt do fhoireann An Aire Joe Mc Hugh, ag cuidiú le Tír Chonaill. Ach tá sé soileár go bhfuil cuid mhór le déanamh go fóill. Tá na mílte turasóirí ag freastal ar áileacht Slí na Atlantaigh Fhiain, ach tá níos mó seirbhisí de dhith le h-iad a mhealladh- óstáín mar shampla le tabhairt orthu fanacht sa cheantar níos faide.”
“Go dtí seo d’obair mé mar ghlór do na daoine ar leibheal náisiúnta as Rialtas- do dhaoine ó Ard a Rátha go Dún Lúiche, agus ó Ghaoth Dobhair go Dún Fionnchaidh. Anois ba mhaith liom glór a thabhairt daofa I dTeach na Contae I Leifear, lena chinntiú go mbeish an ábhar a chuireann as dóíbh a phlé go h-éifeachtach sa Rialtas áitiúil”
Deireann Eibhlín go spreagann an obair ata déanta ag iar aire Dinny Mc Ginly í, chomh maith leis an obair laethúil atá a dhéanamh ag an tAire mc Hugh.
“ Tá Joe Mc Hugh ag cuir Dún na nGall ag croí nlár gach rud a dhéanann sé sa Rialtas, agus is onóir domhsa a bheith ar an turas sin leis, mar pháirt dá fhoireann sa togh cheantar.
Is iomaí deontas agus tógraí amholadh aige ó chúrsaí spóirt, ina rannóg mar Aire Na Gaeltachta, agus anois mar Aire Oideachais”
“ Feiceann muidinne- an foireann- an obair mhaith a théann ar aghaidh sa cheantar, de thairbhe an maoiniú atá Joe a chinntiú sa Rialtas”
“Tá sé soiléar go bhfuil glór de dhith ón Iar thuaisceart- glór úr- ar Chomhairle Chontae Dhún na nGall”
Tá suim mhór ag Eibhlín sa Ghaeilge agus I gcúrsaí na Gaeltachta, agus beidh said lárnach ina cuid oibre. “ Is í ár dteanga ár n-oidhreacht- caithfidh sé a bheith I gceartlár polasaithe an Chomhairle Contae, agus muid ag dul chun tosaigh”.
Creideann Eibhlín go bhfuil sé tábhachtach go mbeadh glór níos láidre ag na mná sa Chomhairle Contae.
“Is páirtí a shealbhaíonn éasúlacht í Fine Gael, le baill as gach rian den tsaol, agus tá sé tabhachtach go mbeidh mná cosúil liomsa mar rólchuspa don chéad ghlúín eile; mná láidre a chuireann a dteaghlaigh agus a bpobail chun tosaigh. Tá mná ghlórach de dhith sna Comhairle Contae agus i nDail Éireann , le tuairimí agus dearcadh ár gceantáir tuaithe a chur os comhair an Rialtas.”
“Ba mhaith liom daoine óga a spreagadh le fís a bheith acu dár gceantar dá dtodhchaí. B amhaith liom uchtach a thabhairt do theaghlaigh a oibríonn go dícheallach; don lucht atá éirithe as a gcuid oibre, agus a bhfuil seirbhís tugtha acu dá bpobail, chun go dtig linn uilig comhoibriú le cheile dár gcontae, ar bhealach atá dearfach. Creidim go mór sa meon dearfa atá ag daoine sa taobh seo tíre”

A dispute has arisen been former presidential candidate Peter Casey and the Donegal County Council over a sea wall that they say he has no right to build. 

Mr Casey has told the Irish Mail on Sunday the county council’s enforcement case over the wall outside his home in Greencastle, Co. Donegal has no validity – because the UK has jurisdiction over Lough Foyle.

However, it was thought that the Good Friday Agreement had settled the dispute, but the British say that they will reclaim the coveted waterway after Brexit.

It is reported that the sea wall will eventually fly an Irish tricolour, in what Casey previously described to the newspaper as ‘two fingers to the British’.

Speaking to the Irish Mail on Sunday, Casey said: “You know the area around it is all disputed. The British claim ownership of it – we’ve reclaimed it [for Ireland].”

Pointing to a picture of the area on his phone, he said: “So what I did was, the guy dynamited his way onto the headland, pushed all the rock out into the [water]… and then see where the flag is now? That’s high tide. At high tide, you can’t see those rocks… but I dug it all out and I’ve got like a natural swimming pool.

“So it’s about 20-foot deep all the way along and I put in boulders all the way across to protect it from erosion. And then we put up the flag – 60 feet tall flag, seven foot, eight foot, by four-foot flag, and that’s claiming Lough Foyle for Ireland.”

The ISPCA’s recent appeal to save an 8-week old puppy born in Donegal has concluded with a happy ending. 

The Spaniel cross puppy, called Odhrán,  is doing well and recovering after his cardiac surgery without any complication at UCD Veterinary Hospital and the veterinary team expect him to make a full recovery.

Over €2000 was needed to be raised to help save the sweet pup’s life and kind-hearted animal lovers didn’t think twice.

Speaking after the surgery, ISPCA Centre Manager Denise McCausland said: “We would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who donated to help us with the surgery, and who sent so many positive messages and support for Odhrán.

“Thank you to the amazing staff at UCD Veterinary Hospital for performing the surgery and saving this puppy’s life.”

Picture of Odhrán after surgery can be seen below.

Donegal jockey Martin Harley recorded his second win during his stint in Hong Kong this afternoon.

Harley won the Kat O Hoi Handicap at Sha Tin aboard the 5/1 shot Indigenous Star.

Harley edged the race on Indigenous Star by just a neck from Best Effort.

The 11/5 favourite, Little Fantasy, was third.

Harley and Indigenous Star powered through the last 50 yards to take the win.

Indigenous Star had been Harley’s first mount in Hong Kong and he got on the saddle to hand Ricky Yiu his 18th win of the season.

“Ricky stood by me and I am absolutely delighted to ride him a winner, he’s given me plenty of track work in the morning and he believes in me,” Harley said.

Earlier this month, Harley took victory on the 87-1 chance High Five.

A young journalist from Letterkenny is embarking on a volunteer trip to India to help make a difference to the lives of street and slum children.

Catherine Devine is taking a career break from her role at the Irish Independent this summer to visit Asia, where she will spend three months in Calcutta with the Hope Foundation. 

Her work with the Irish charity will involve public relations and teaching English and Arts to some of the most underprivileged children in India.

But she also aspires to learn from the resilient young people that she encounters.

Catherine Devine

In order to volunteer, Catherine must raise €3,000 to go directly to the Hope Foundation. She has organised a fun Mamma Mia charity night in Century Cinemas on April 8th at 8:30pm, with a raffle and best-dressed prizes to generate support for the foundation.

Catherine is hoping that her work in India can help make a lasting impact on young lives.

She said: “I hope to experience the vibrant culture of India, but mostly I hope to see the great work that the Irish volunteers are doing and contribute myself to some of the 90 projects that are being run by the Hope Foundation in areas such as housing, healthcare, counselling and education.

“Previous volunteers at Hope have said that they were taken back by how positive and happy the street children were, despite them being some of the poorest and most vulnerable children in the world. I hope by working with the children, their positive outlook on life will rub off on me too.”

Catherine is no stranger to international trips through her work. In November 2017 she travelled to Ethiopia under the Simon Cumbers Media Fund supported by the Department of Foreign Affairs. The project was focused on education and the empowerment of women in Ethiopia – and in particular how Irish people are helping these causes every day.

Catherine Devine during her Simon Cumbers Media Fund trip to Ethiopia at a school run by the Irish community in Ambo

She also toured America in 2018 under the Veronica Guerin scholarship, where she researched and reported on hate crimes in the US for eight months.

“This project also opened my eyes to the struggles that the most vulnerable in American society are facing. It was really interesting to see how different Americans’ views were depending on the state we were in,” she said.

Catherine with her team at Mount Rushmore as part of the News21 programme investigating hate crimes in America.

These eye-opening experiences have inspired Catherine to do more, learn more and discover more of the world, starting with India and then further afield.

“Both experiences were incredible and definitely made me want to travel and learn more about different cultures,” she said.

“I’m really looking forward to travelling to India and experiencing all that the country has to offer.

“After my three months of volunteering, I’m then going to Thailand, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam so there is a lot to look forward to.

“When I return, I’m hoping to do my masters in Global Developmental Policies and International Relations so hopefully I will get to do a lot more travelling in years to come.”

To help Catherine reach the €3,000 target for the Hope Foundation, all are welcome to come and enjoy the fun of Mamma Mia at Century Cinemas on Monday 8th April. Tickets are €10 and available from Seamus Devine at 0872482775

If you would like to support Catherine’s fundraiser online, visit the everydayhero page on: https://give.everydayhero.com/ie/the-hope-foundation-catherine-devine

The Four Lanterns Ulster Senior League’s joint leaders couldn’t be separated on a day when Cockhill Celtic may have taken a big step towards a seventh successive title.

Cockhill Celtic 0 Letterkenny Rovers 0

By Chris McNulty at the Charlie O’Donnell Sports Grounds

Cockhill and Letterkenny Rovers remain locked on 35 points but, crucially, Cockhill have a game in hand. Gavin Cullen’s team certainly had more to gain by avoiding defeat than Rovers had to lose by failing to win.

Both sides could have won it, but neither did.

It was a game dominated for long periods by Cockhill, but the champions couldn’t find a way through.

The temperature rose as the game went on, but there was no breaking the stalemate in spite of a glut of chances for the hosts.

Cockhill’s biggest chance came 14 minutes from the end when Brendan McLaughlin drilled against a post after half-time replacement Laurence Toland seized on Ryan Lonergan’s timid touch.

McLaughlin drew a save from Rory Kelly, the Letterkenny Rovers goalkeeper, while Daniel Martin Doherty and Jimmy Bradley also went close.

Rovers defender Conor Tourish cleared the danger as Cockhill laid siege when McLaughlin beat Kelly in a race for possession.

Cockhill had threatened with just 90 seconds on the watch as Gerard McLaughlin clipped the post after rising to meet Gerry Gill’s free.

Brendan McLaughlin fired wide while Kelly did well to get his fingertips to Daniel Martin Doherty’s low drive from the right-hand edge of the penalty area.

Letterkenny Rovers

Rovers had a couple of notable moments in the first half, particularly when the in-rushing Brian McVeigh met Lee Toland’s tantalising 16^th minute cross.

McVeigh’s effort was hooked away by Gerard McLaughlin on the chalk of the goal-line, the necks craned towards the linesman, Packie Coll in anticipation that the ball might’ve crossed the line. The flag remained by his side and the home side drew breath.

Rovers had minor appeals for a penalty a little earlier when McVeigh’s cross was met by Darren McElwaine, who went to ground in the area. Vincent McLaughlin, the match referee, was having none of it.

Letterkenny appeared to have a more justified claim in the closing stages, when sub Declan Sharkey was taken down but, again, there was a stern shake of the head from the man in the middle.

Letterkenny struggled to find a cutting edge in their attack for the most part. Pajo Rafferty was sent on for his first game since serving a 12-month suspension, but the supply line was scant.

In added time, Mark Moran might’ve won it for Cockhill, but he curled just over the top.

Cockhill Celtic: Gavin Cullen, Jason Breslin, Lee McColgan, Peter Doherty (Kieran McLaughlin 58), Oisin McColgan, Gerard McLaughlin, Daniel Martin Doherty (Mark Moran 77), Jimmy Bradley, Bart Wesowlowski (Laurence Toland half-time), Brendan McLaughlin, Gerry Gill.

Letterkenny Rovers: Rory Kelly, Ryan Lonergan, Lee Toland, Ryan McConnell, Conor Tourish, Brian McVeigh (Declan Sharkey 85), Chris Malseed, Darren McElwaine (Pajo Rafferty 72), Christy Connaghan, BJ Banda.

Referee: Vincent McLaughlin

Three schoolgirls from Deele College in Raphoe have got through to the National semi-finals of the FORÓIGE (NFTE) Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship Awards in Dublin. 

Saffron Porter, Stephanie Harper and Ellie Barron received the backing of Donegal TD Joe McHugh and Donegal boxer Jason Quigley when promoting their product “Clean Guard”. 

Posting on Facebook, Jason Quigley said he wished the girls the best in the next phase of the entrepreneurship awards. 

“Big thank you to the Clean Guard team for my gum shield cleaner,” Quigley said. “Great idea and something all top athletes in contact sports should have.

“(It) cleans all the bacteria that we don’t realize is in our gum shields and prevents sicknesses and lets you perform to your best.

“Wishing the team all the best in the semi-final for creating this idea.

“Good luck and thanks for my own clean guard,” the boxer concluded.

See some pictures below…

St.Michaels    1-14    V    1-11   Milford.                                                                                          St.Michael’s gave new manager Gary O Neill a winning start with this impressive performance against Milford in this Brian Mc Cormick Sports and Leisure Division one clash at The Bridge. This fixture was brought forward a couple of weeks but the home team showed from the start that they were ready for it and hit the ground running in ideal conditions on a beautiful afternoon in Dunfanaghy.                                                                                                                   Charlie Collins reports from The Bridge .                                                                     Both teams started without several players that might be considered starters if available but Mark Anthony McGinley and Martin McElhinney who both recently withdrew from the Donegal Senior squad started for the home team and McElhinney had a big influence on the outcome with a strong display in the vital last ten minutes.                                                                                                                   It was 0-05 apiece at the break , Milford had played with the wind advantage so St. Michaels would have been the happier team at half-time.                                       Daniel McLaughlin , Andrew Kelly , a fine Mark Anthony McGinley free and two points from impressive  youngster Edward O Reilly with two good points scored for the home team while Luke Barrett kicked three , two from frees, and Kane Barrett and Cathal McGettigan’s free replied for Milford .                                           Kelly , Odhran McFadden and Ciaran Gallagher all scored from play in the opening five minutes of the second-half to send St.Michaels three clear but Milford’s respond was excellent.                                                                                            Christopher Barrett pointed and then after a fine team build-up , Ronan Docherty’s pass was palmed to the net by Luke Barrett in the 40th minute and Milford led by one. Odhran McFadden and Cathal McGettigan exchanged points before Milford had a big shout for a penalty when they broke from midfield and Kane Barrett set up sub Pauric Curley with a goal chance , however he was stopped in his tracks by Jamie Hunter who looks fortunate that the Referee decided it was a legal challenge .                                                                                     Very quickly Daniel McLaughlin and Chris McElhinney put St.Michaels ahead again but Luke Barrett and Darragh Black replied to edge Milford in front .  Daniel McLaughlin’s free levelled it up in the 50th minute but Kane Barrett pointed again and Milford led again.                                                                                                    Martin McElhinney then took the game by the scruff of the neck and kicked two quick points before bursting through from midfield and setting up Andrew Kelly to hammer the ball home for a match-winning goal. Luke Barrett pointed a late free but St. Michaels held on to win by three ,1-14 to 1-11.                       St.MICHAELS ; Mark A McGinley ,( 0-01f ),  Jamie Hunter , Steven Black , Liam Kelly , Michael Cannon , Ryan Langan , Chris McElhinney ( 0-01 ), Ciaran Gallagher ( 0-01 ) ,  Liam Paul Ferry , Daniel McLaughlin ( 0-03 ),  Colin McFadden , Edward O Reilly ( 0-02 ), Andrew Kelly ( 1-02 ),  Martin McElhinney ( 0-02 ) , Odhran McFadden ( 0-02 ),                                                                                     SUBS ;  Colm Anthony McFadden and Peter Sweeney for Odhran McFadden and Black ( both 50mins ).                                                                                             MILFORD ; Caolan McGettigan , Anthony Fisher , Sean Black , T J Eversson, Ronan Docherty , Paddy Peoples , James Doyle , Luke Barrett ( 1-05 4f ),  Rory 0 Donnell , Conor McHugh , Christopher Barrett ( 0-01 ),  Ryan Mc Mahon , Darrach Black ( 0-01 ), Cathal McGettigan ( 0-02 ),  Kane Barrett ( 0-02 ).               SUBS ;  Pauric Curley and Conor Coll for Fisher and Conor McHugh ( both 42 mins ).                                                                                                                                      Referee ; Mark Dorrian.

Letterkenny Blaze U14 girls secured a vital victory to win the All Ireland Club Championship Division B title in Gormanston Park, Co Meath. 

The girls came out top in the North West league and therefore competed in the Div B category.

Blaze were situated in Pool 2 on Saturday where they lost their first game, ironically to the beaten finalists East Cavan Eagles by only five points.

Their other pool games saw the Letterkenny outfit beat St Colms 44 – 20 and TK Bobcats 47 – 28.

In the semi-final on Sunday, the girls met Portlaoise Panthers where they kept their winning streak going through grit and determination winning out 46 – 28.

The final saw the girls meet East Cavan Eagles the team which has been their first defeat all season.

After a frantic period, girls kept their composure to secure a one-point victory. When the final whistle sounded it finished 31-30 in Blaze’s favour.

Eamonn Doherty says calmness was the key as Donegal defeated Meath in Saturday evening’s Division 2 final at Croke Park.

Doherty was sent on as a half-time replacement, at a time when Donegal trailed the Royals by five points.

Earlier, Donegal were eight behind and Doherty’s introduction, to mark Cillian O’Sullivan, was one of the telling switches.

“I marked him earlier in the League so I knew he was dangerous,” Doherty told Donegal Daily/Donegal Sport Hub.

“He got away from me one time and I had to foul him. I knew going in that I had to do the job.

“I don’t think anyone panicked. We knew we weren’t playing well.

Donegal led for the first time in the 57^th minute when Jamie Brennan fired home a goal and they were able to close out for a 1-17 to 1-15 win.

Doherty said: “We knew that we had it in us. When Jamie got his chance, he took it beautifully.

“We knew we’d get back into it and we managed the game very well.”

Listen to the full interview below …

Meath manager Andy McEntee had a light pop at Michael Murphy’s ‘influence’ after Saturday evening’s Division 2 final.

By Chris McNulty at Croke Park

Murphy hit seven points and delivered one of his best ever performances for Donegal as they toppled the Royals, coming from eight points down at headquarters.

Meath finished the game with 14 men as Shane Gallagher was sent off late in the game.

“Michael was a huge factor,” McEntee said.

“He’s a target man and he is very influential in a lot of areas.

“He is very influential all around the field. We get a guy who gets two yellows, but the bould Michael gets booked and ticked three or four times … is that possible? Maybe I’m exaggerating, but …”

McEntee’s Meath burst from the blocks and Thomas O’Reilly’s goal had them 1-6 to 0-1 in front after only 12 minutes.

But Donegal, led by Murphy and spurred by Jamie Brennan’s goal, claimed the prize.

McEntee said: “If we are brutally honest, Donegal looked the stronger team in the second half. The goal was probably coming.

“They were running hard down the middle. We didn’t track the runner and the goal came. They had momentum at that stage.

“They have a lot of quality. They were very controlled when they got on top.”

Donegal woman Caroline French has been honoured as Paramedic of the Year by the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.

The Lifford native, who is a Community Paramedic in Castlederg, received the title at the first ever NIAS Staff Recognition Awards Ceremony.

Caroline’s colleagues had nominated her for her outstanding service to the community, and, according to the NIAS, all staff faced stiff competition as the standards were so high.

Paramedic of the Year – Caroline French (Community Paramedic, Castlederg), receiving her NIAS award from Hazel Winning, AHP Lead DOH

Some 150 guests attended the awards ceremony in Templepatrick last Thursday, which was a roaring success as nominees joined with staff who were to receive their Long Service Medals for service of 20 years or more.

Caroline was among the thirty eight staff who were celebrated for their dedication to providing the highest standards of patient care to those who need the services.

The Chief Medical Officer, Dr Michael McBride, in his address praised their work and commitment to patient care. He assured them that their value and worth is recognised across the HSC family.

The night was full of proud moments, while Lord Lieutenant for Antrim, Mrs Joan Christie, was effusive in her praise for crew members and, as she made clear, she was doing so from the perspective of someone who has used the services.

The competition last weekend was the Supervalu Open Scramble and true to form for the scramble format there were some outstanding golf played over the two days.

None more than from the team under the captaincy of the evergreen Mickey Mc Cann (23) and his playing partners Oliver Doherty (4), Joe Mc Cauley (15) & Billy McDaid (19).

This team shot a tremendous 7 birdies over the front 9 another 3 in the back 9 to amass a fantastic winning score of 55 pts. In second place with another fantastic score of 54 pts were Derek Smith (7), Andrew McIlhinney (12), Paul Eccles (16) & Martin Barber (32).

The best day with an impressive 51 pts on the break of tie went to Benny Murphy (9), Mark Monaghan (12), Nathaniel Mc Grory (12) & Conor Harvey (16).

Mini-League

Congratulations to Sean T Murphy & Mark Monaghan who were crowned Mini League Champions for 2019. After an absolute ding dong battle with Shaun Devlin & Henry McDaid in which the golf would of more suited the Ryder Cup.

The first 9 was a birdie fest and yet neither pair could be separated after 9 with the match turning all square.

But Mark & Sean T started to turn the screw in the back 9 and manage to sneak into a lead and they closed off the match 3/2 after a superb golfing performance.

Competition

The competition this weekend Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th April will be an Open Stableford which is sponsored by the Atlantic Bar Buncrana.

Find the Joker Fundraising

The “Find the Joker” is up and running again with a Jackpot of €400.00, lines only cost €2 each and this draw is open to members and non-members alike. Lines can be purchased in the clubhouse or through chief seller Oliver Doherty.

Membership Deals

There are great membership deals available at present i.e. golf until March 1st 2020 – Men €350.00, Ladies €232, complete beginners male €260.00 and Lady €190.00 all rates inclusive of G.U.I. & Insurance fees.

A reminder to all members paying by instalments all membership fees have to be paid in full on or before 1st May 2019 failure to comply will result in your membership being terminated.